Bulletin boards in the classroom serve as a major resource of information for students. Many educators choose bulletin boards to hang student achievements, colorful clues on behavior, classroom ideas, rules, etc. Too many become a distraction to students with attention problems. They do more harm than good.
Bulletin Board Shoulds
Bulletin boards should display student work rather than teacher bought items. Displaying work sends the message that the work is valued. Students will evaluate their own work more than teacher bought displays. When students see quality work, they will rise to the occasion. They will work to achieve that same level. It helps students understand how to improve. Displays support the reading and math goals and standards. Bulletin boards create atmosphere and build community. School wide themes are supported through using bulletin boards.
Bulletin Board Should-Nots
There are students that are not comfortable showing work on bulletin boards. Only displaying outstanding work can turn off struggling students. When displaying only exemplary work, students realize they are not capable of such work and become unmotivated. They view the exceptional work as being typical.
Documentation or Display for Bulletin Boards
Students need to have an indication of what is considered typical. Posting only superior examples will discourage them. The power of recognized work is important. Students form a positive view if the work is recognized as a job well done.
Classrooms that display student information have a negative response. A student’s proficiency level or test score should never be posted. If a student isn’t meeting the expected level, they face ridicule. Instead of posting scores, students can keep a log of their personal achievements. Private information should be kept private.
Students look at their own work more frequently than they look at store bought materials. Bulletin boards are to be utilized to help students by displaying work as examples of learning. They must encourage and motivate all students. Work should be kept current so students don’t get tired of seeing something they completed a month ago. Showcasing work inspires a student’s creativity. It invigorates them to reach greater accomplishments.
